A seat-belt injury pattern on axial CT shows: chance-type fracture of L2, mesenteric infiltration with bowel wall thickening, and free fluid without solid organ injury. The hollow viscus injury rate in this combination (seat-belt sign + chance fracture) is approximately:
- A 5–10%
- B 15–20%
- C 30–40% ✓
- D 60–70%
Correct answer: C. 30–40%
Explanation
The combination of a seat-belt cutaneous sign and flexion-distraction (Chance) fracture carries approximately a 30–40% risk of hollow viscus injury, predominantly mesenteric tear or bowel perforation. This high association mandates surgical exploration even if CT findings are equivocal. CT sensitivity for isolated bowel perforation is only 60–70%, so clinical correlation is essential.
Reference: Grainger & Allison's Diagnostic Radiology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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